Dave's blog: Packaging everywhere

So Labelexpo has come to a close, and quite a show it was.

While it was already known that Labelexpo Europe 2013 was to be the series’ biggest yet, with 600 exhibitors from 37 countries spread across 31,000 sq m in seven halls, it is only post-show that we know nearly 32,000 visitors passed through the doors, surpassing the anticipated total.  

Those 32,000 visitors had plenty to see, thanks to a record number of product launches, and some impressive looking stands. There were also big features to visit. From HP's Print Your Future area, where it and 20-plus partners showcased end-to-end options for label, flexible packaging and carton printing, to the Inkjet Trail and Package Printing Workshops.

It was noticeable who much packaging was on show this year. And by that I don't mean the catch-all term including labels. Inks, materials, presses and finishing systems applicable for package printing, especially flexible packaging, were to be found across the halls. Sun Chemical in hall 5, Edale in hall 7, Nuova Gidue in hall 11. There were many.

I think this highlights how strongly the label market is looking towards package printing as a way to diversify, and the opportunities that clearly exist for the narrow web market to grow beyond the label.

This was further shown by the large audience that turned out for the Package Printing Workshop sessions at Labelexpo Europe 2013, with all paying close attention to Nuova Gidue's Digital Flexo concept suitable for flexibles, and to Xeikon's process for printing, converting and sheeting digitally printed folding cartons.

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